Services
Behavioral health care
Mental and emotional health is part of our everyday care
Caring for the whole child
How we support your child’s mental and emotional health
Routine screenings
Conversation and guidance
Referrals to specialists
On-site support
Behavioral health basics
What is behavioral health? And is behavioral health the same as mental health? Not exactly – but they are very closely intertwined. Behavioral health refers to the care of a person’s mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. Mental health issues are a big part of the overall picture, but not the only part.
Behavioral health also encompasses lifestyle factors (such as diet, exercise, and sleep), substance use disorders (including drugs and alcohol), and social functioning (from coping mechanisms to relationships). These all contribute to a person’s overall well-being – and they can all be improved with timely intervention and treatment.
Our pediatricians are trained to screen for behavioral concerns
Behavioral health screenings are an important part of every well visit before the first signs of puberty begin. These screenings are integrated into routine check-ups at an early age to identify potential issues like anxiety, depression, and substance use as soon as possible, from preadolescence through the preteen and teen years.
During the visit, your pediatrician will observe your child’s behavior and interactions with others, including eye contact and body language. You or your child may complete a mental health questionnaire. Your pediatrician will also ask carefully crafted open-ended questions that help us assess your child’s well-being, while giving you a forum to discuss any concerns. We’re here to listen.
